It’s been a while since Porsche had a front-engined GT in its range. Most car enthusiasts will remember the 928 that was launched in 1979 with the aim to replace the 911 by offering improved drivability and increased passenger and luggage space.
Even though it was named “Car of the Year” in 1978, and was continuously evolved until production ended in 1995, it failed in its original mission since the 911, despite its shortcomings, far outlived it.
Now, according to information obtained by Autocar magazine, Porsche is once again planning a two-door, front engine GT, essentially a spiritual successor to the 928. The new model, which could be named 929, will be based on the second generation of the Panamera and is believed to arrive sometime in 2014 or 2015.
The reason why Porsche has decided to build a 928 successor is the increasing popularity of the GT sector, which has grown to more than 10,000 sales a year. A modern-day 928 would provide the Stuttgart carmaker with a credible alternative to rival the likes of the Ferrari California and Aston Martin DB9.
The 929, if it gets the green light, will use a shortened version of the Panamera platform and share some parts with the third generation Bentley Continental GT.
Porsche has already announced a big investment at its Leipzig plant, where the Cayenne is produced, in order to increase capacity in anticipation for the smaller Cajun SUV. But it could also indicate that the increased capacity is also planned for the second-gen Panamera derivatives.
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